Allen's request hit Reginald like a slap to the face. The royal beta was approaching middle age—still in his prime by shifter standards, but way too old for Fiona.
The bastard had been eyeing Reginald's mate since day one. Blonde hair, green eyes—apparently that checked all his boxes.
One night. That's what he wanted. One night with Reginald's mate, just to remind him who held the real power here. He knew Reginald led the fugitives, and this was his way of grinding his face in the dirt.
The shock wore off fast. What came after wasn't rage—it was something colder. Reginald almost laughed at his balls, asking to bed another man's mate like it was nothing.
He didn't even have the decency to look ashamed. Like he'd done this dance countless times before.
Made Reginald wonder how many women in Valerium had already warmed his bed.
"You look beautiful." Reginald pressed his lips to her neck, right over his mark. Fiona stood there getting ready for Allen, fighting back tears.
